Lymphangitis
| Classification according to ICD-10 | |
|---|---|
| L03 | Phlegmon Acute Lymphangitis |
| I89 | Other non-infectious diseases of the lymph vessels and lymph nodes |
| I89.1 | Chronic lymphangitis Subacute lymphangitis |
| ICD-10 online (WHO version 2019) | |
The lymphangitis (also lymphangiitis ) is a relatively rare inflammation of the lymphatics of the skin and subcutaneous fat ( subcutis ) which mostly by bacteria ( streptococcus and rare staphylococci is caused). But it can also be caused by other noxae such as B. rust or paravascularly infused chemotherapy drugs .
The factually incorrect term "blood poisoning" often leads to confusion with sepsis , which is a life-threatening general disease. Lymphangitis can rarely develop into true sepsis if the infection spreads to the bloodstream , but the prognosis itself is favorable.
The most noticeable symptom is the inflamed lymphatic system that has become visible as a painful, red stripe under the skin. They start from the focus of inflammation. Accordingly, there are also enlarged lymph nodes in the lymphatic drainage area. In the case of extensive inflammation, general symptoms such as fever and malaise can also appear.
In medicine , lymphangitis is divided into an acute and chronic form. If lymphatic drainage disorders occur after recurrent or chronic lymphangitis, lymphedema can develop.
Bacterial lymphangitis can usually be combated well with antibiotics . Further therapy consists of immobilizing an extremity , disinfecting compresses, cooling and, if necessary, surgical focal treatment.
